New logistics program at Anoka Technical College offers certifications in hazardous waste management and forklift operation

Anoka Technical College students who are in the new Logistics certificate program will be able to graduate with certifications in hazardous waste management and forklift operation.

The 16-credit certificate is designed for students seeking first-time employment in supply chain management or for experienced individuals who want to expand their knowledge. The program emphasizes professional standards, and proper methodology, such as sound logistics strategies and principles.

Employment in the logistics and supply field is projected to grow 22 percent from 2012 to 2022, much faster than the average for all occupations, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Logistics specialists evaluate and organize a firm’s supply chain—the system that moves a product from supplier to consumer. Students learn to manage the entire life cycle of a product, which includes how a product is acquired, distributed, allocated, and delivered.

Governments and the military also rely on logisticians, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Planning for and moving military supplies and personnel require an enormous amount of logistical work. Employment of logisticians in government and contracting firms will continue to grow to meet the needs of the military.

Companies rely on logistics specialists to better compete in a highly globalized market. Supply and distribution systems have become increasingly complex, with the aim of maximizing efficiency while minimizing cost. The performance of the logistical and supply chain process is an important factor in a company’s profitability. Therefore, employment is expected to grow rapidly as companies need more logisticians to move products efficiently, solve problems, and identify areas for improvement.

Graduates will have knowledge and understanding of analytical tools used in logistics, current local, state, federal, and international laws related to large scale transport and storage of materials; ethical/legal issues related to purchasing and transportation of goods and materials and the knowledge and skills to analyze potential opportunities in the management of supply chain.